Filippo NASSETTI & Alessandro ZOMPARELLI: Contemporary scientific and technological research are changing the way man relates to his body. Synthetic biology, advanced prosthetics, and biohacking let one imagine future scenarios of physical transformation and redefinition, both aesthetic and performative.

In this direction, Carapace is a possible evolution of the human body in which rigid elements similar to crustacean and insect exoskeletons integrate and transform sensory districts: eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. This collection of masks, Carapace, is inspired by this vision: fossils of a possible future, once worn these objects blur the limit between natural extension and artificial prosthesis. (Carapace masks are CARAPACE PROJECT products. CARAPACE PROJECT is a deep future brand dealing with generative design, biodigital synthesis, prosthetics and form customization, generated by MHOX.)

The Carapace pattern is inspired by the microstructure of crustacean and insect exoskeletons. Biodigitally grown through a generative simulation, it differentiates objects’ areas allowing for modulation their structure, stiffness, and permeability.

The Carapace Masks collection includes two objects: Audiam and Vidiam. Audiam means “I will hear”. The Audiam mask is the fossil of a hearing-area’s evolution. The brain’s occipital lobe, seat of sight sense, expands itself, transforming its relationship with the ear and the hearing sense, defining a new condition of hyperconnectivity. Vidiam means “I will see”. Vidiam mask is the fossil of a sight-area’s evolution. A possible transformation caused by the pressure of an overexposed environment and the need for protection through identity’s concealment.

The Carapace Masks collection includes two product lines: Mater masks and Replica masks. Mater is the high-end line. Customized on the 3-D facial scan of the wearer, these masks are produced as single pieces through CRP Technology’s additive manufacturing and Windform materials.

Windform materials are characterized by their mechanical features. Windform LX 2.0 and Windform GT have been chosen to produce this top level facemask for their features: polyamide-based materials reinforced with glass fibers. Free-form design, custom-made solutions, and the ability to build superior face masks can be obtained by using the combination of additive manufacturing and Windform materials.

The Replica masks are standard fit and 3-D printed in nylon. The white and translucent material recalls the fetal stadium of the individual’s growth.

sP: What or who influenced this project?
FN & AZ: The form and microstructure of crab exoskeletons.